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Minister of State Timmy Dooley TD, at Shannon Chamber’s 30th Anniversary celebrations with Chamber president Mark Nolan and CEO Helen Downes. Photograph by Eamon Ward

Shannon Chamber Honours Founding Director Mick Guinee’s outstanding contribution to the region

The outstanding achievements of Shannon Chamber of Commerce over the past thirty years were celebrated at a special anniversary dinner held in Dromoland Castle Hotel on Friday, 28 November.

Leaders, past and present, along with representatives from government and industry, gathered in the iconic Brian Boru Hall to honour the Chamber’s significant role in shaping the development of Shannon and the wider region since its establishment in 1995.

Minister of State, Timmy Dooley TD, was among the principal speakers. He noted that the Chamber had not only influenced government policy but played a significant role in shaping government thinking. Reflecting on his many interactions with the Chamber since his election to the Oireachtas in 2002, he praised the Chamber for consistently highlighting the importance of regional infrastructural assets and their potential to drive economic development.

Directing his attention to the Chamber presidents and directors, past and present, he said: “It’s important to set out how impactful your activities have been over the past thirty years. Thank you for the guidance, support, and advice that you have provided to me over those years. Together, working at local, national, and European level, you have made a difference.”

Shannon Chamber President Mark Nolan, in his address, reflected on the vision of the founding directors – Chris Taylor, Arthur Hanly, Austin Collins, Michael Firtzpatrick, Risteard Crimmins, Mick Guinee, George O’Carroll, Paddy O’Rouke and Aidan Quish – who established Shannon & District Chamber of Commerce as the ‘Voice of Commercial Activity in Shannon and District.

“We are gathered here in Dromoland to celebrate how your vision has grown into a dynamic, influential organisation, representing a thriving and diverse business community,” he said

He expressed gratitude to the 13 presidents who preceded him, and to the Chamber’s directors for their commitment to ensuring that Shannon Chamber has always acted in the best interests of its member companies and their employees. He singled out Chamber CEO Helen Downes for the dynamic leadership she has provided since assuming the role in 2008, describing her effervescent personality and relentless drive to ensure that all that happens in Shannon and the region receives the recognition it deserves.

Highlighting the spirt of collaboration that has always underpinned Shannon’s success, he continued: “Shannon is, and always has been, about people, about collaboration, connection, and the belief that when we work together, we can achieve extraordinary things. Over the past thirty years, the Chamber has supported industries through change, welcomed new companies into the region, fostered global partnerships, and provided a platform where ideas become initiatives and initiatives become impact.”

He expressed his thanks to the Chamber’s board, committees, and the executive team: “Your dedication and leadership continue to drive the organisation forward,”

Addressing partners, supporters, and the media he added: “We are grateful for your collaboration and belief in what Shannon can be.”

Looking to the future, he added: “The next chapter for Shannon will be defined by innovation, sustainability, and ambition. Shannon Chamber will continue to champion the region, support business, and ensure that Shannon remains a place of opportunity, resilience, and growth.”

The celebratory event, sponsored by Ei Electronics, The Shannon Airport Group. Fine Grain Property, VHI, AIB, Clare County Council and Dromoland Castle, also featured as special presentation to former director Dr Michael Guinee.

Chamber CEO Helen Downes presented him with a bespoke sculptor by Irish Natural Stone (INStone) sculptor Colin Grehan, titled ‘Pools of Light’, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the region.

“Back in 1995, Mick Guinee helped set the Chamber on the journey we celebrate tonight,” she said. “Even when he stepped aside from his directorship, he never really stepped away from the Chamber. He has continued to support us in countless unspoken ways, always quietly, always generously. This sculptor, which embodies, purity, impermanence and quiet contemplation, is a fitting tribute to this extraordinary person,” she added.

Sharing her personal attribution, she added: “Beyond all that, he has been my personal mentor and my go-to person. Leadership can be a lonely place, but having someone of his calibre to bounce ideas off has made it anything but. I listen to his advice, I consider his ideas, and I act on his guidance. When he stepped aside from leading Ei Electronics, I gave him a brown leather book, encouraging him to jot down thoughts for his first book. I suspect he’ll need many more such books to capture all his stories and achievements.”

Greetings were shared from those unable to attend on the night. Extracts of their messages follow:

Paddy Purcell, President, Shannon Chamber 2001 – 2003:

“In our early years, we could only imagine what we, as a group of determined businesspeople, hoped Shannon might become. To see the seeds we planted 30 years ago grow into what Shannon Chamber is today is a testament to everyone who has contributed to this great member-driven organisation over the past three decades.”

Ian Talbot, CEO, Chamber Ireland:

“Congratulations on 30 years of excellence, engagement, and leadership. May the next chapter bring further success and lasting impact for Shannon, its businesses, and the wider community. Over the past three decades, Shannon Chamber has not only championed the interests of local businesses but has also played a pivotal role in driving the economic and social development of the region. Your steadfast dedication to fostering growth, innovation, training, and collaboration stands as a testament to your vision.”

Paul Sweetman, CEO, AmCham:

“Many congratulations to Shannon Chamber on 30 years of advancing business. Here’s to the next 30 and looking forward to our continued collaboration.”

Derek McKay, Director, Adare – Shannon Chamber’s HR Partner:

“Congratulations to Shannon Chamber on marking 30 years of exceptional contribution to the region and its business community. Your sustained vision, passion and innovation have created a legacy to be genuinely proud of.”

 Mark Purdy, Chair, Canada Ireland Foundation:

“On behalf of the Board and staff of the Canada Ireland Foundation, we extend our heartfelt congratulations on your 30th anniversary. This milestone stands as a remarkable achievement and a reflection of the leadership, innovation, and community spirit that define Shannon. Our stories have been closely connected—from the pioneering flying boats that journeyed between Foynes and Heart’s Content to the enduring personal, cultural, and economic bonds that have grown ever since. These connections continue to shape both of our shores in meaningful ways. We are especially grateful that this relationship is further strengthened through Helen Downes, whose valued contribution to our Board deepens the link between Shannon and Toronto.”

IDA Ireland extended its heartfelt congratulations to Shannon Chamber on the remarkable achievements of its 30-year history saying that the organisation recognises the Chamber as a strong advocate for collaboration and a key contributor to the continued development of Shannon and the wider region.

Shannon Chamber founding director Mick Guinee is presented with a bespoke Irish Natural Stone (INStone) sculptor by Chamber president Mark Nolan and CEO Helen Downes. Photograph by Eamon Ward

Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes, pictured with the current Chamber President Mark Nolan and former Presidents – Mick Guinee, Mary Considine, Stephen Keogh, Kevin Thompstone, Damian Gleeson, Eoin Hoctor, Edmund Jennings, Eoin Gavin and Ian Barrett at the 30th anniversary celebrations in Dromoland Castle Hotel. Photograph by Eamon Ward